It’s springtime, which means that seasonal allergies are in full swing. If you suffer from allergies, then you are probably used to a range of symptoms: sneezing, itchy eyes, a runny nose, and more. However, in light of the pandemic, you might also be thinking about another potential symptom. Can allergies cause loss of taste and smell, or is this always a COVID symptom? The answer can be confusing. We’ll break it down in the article below.
Allergy Vs. COVID-19 Symptoms
Firstly, it’s important to understand the difference between allergy and COVID-19 symptoms. It’s true that allergies can produce a wide range of symptoms. However, most of them are related to the nasal passages. Symptoms usually resolve with allergy medication, and symptoms will improve once you are no longer exposed to the allergen.
COVID-19 also produces a wide range of symptoms. However, they are usually respiratory-related or signs of an infection. Unlike allergy patients, COVID-19 patients are more likely to have cough, chest pains, and/or shortness of breath, as well as viral symptoms like fever or chills.
Can Allergies Cause Loss of Taste?
We know that loss of taste and smell are hallmark COVID symptoms. But can allergies cause loss of taste and smell, too? If your allergies are particularly bad, then these senses might be affected. This is because a congested nose can sometimes alter your taste and smell. However, these symptoms will only happen with other allergy symptoms like congestion. This loss of taste and smell is also more mild than what COVID patients experience. In COVID patients, the loss of these senses is completely unrelated to nasal congestion.
When In Doubt
COVID-19 tests are important for anyone with symptoms. COVID tests are quick, easy, and convenient. But most importantly, they help to monitor the disease spread so that your community can stay as healthy as possible. If you are an allergy sufferer, then your allergies might be impacting your taste and smell. However, a coronavirus test is the only way to know for sure.
Emergency Hospital Systems offers both COVID-19 tests and also the COVID-19 vaccine. Call your nearest branch to learn more.